I am sick of the “standard model’s need only apply” or the answer constantly being “they are looking for industry standard models only.” What is the industry standard and who made up this rule? Was this set by the definition of “beauty” or “standard”. Height, weight, looks…these are a mans goal, a worlds view of what is or is not beautiful enough to grace a magazine cover, or walk along side other models of various standards.

The Webster dictionary definition states “beautiful” as a very high standard, excellent. Nowhere does it state that there is a height requirement. Nowhere does it state there is a weight requirement. We need to stop making requirements and start rallying beside each other!

As a teen, I was too small to fit into “teen” clothing, and my friend was too robust to wear what was “in style” most of the time. On a vacation in Florida, we had a conversation and decided it was time to change the standards. We joked about making a line fit for petite women, both small and robust in stature. That lead us to the acronym, JAM, the initials of three girls all of various size, height and shape.

The journey followed only through vacation, but the memory has always stuck with me. Was the standard so high even those of “industry height” could not make the cut? Was the goal so unrealistic even the slightest flaw put one on the outskirts of the journey?

So, years later, I have come to the conclusion that yes, the goal is unreachable. We need to stand firm, stand together and change this so called “standard” for the best!

Let women be beautiful in their own way, let women achieve by doing, by trying. Stop discarding them simply for a God-given flaw that is no flaw at all, but a piece that makes one an individual.

Realistically, how many women do you know, personally, that are 5’6″ or taller? I can name, oh, five, perhaps? Most ladies are 5’5″ or under. My boss is 4’10”, my mother 5’0″, myself a tiny bit under 5’2″…

The models are average height, the voices equal. Height standard is simple, be yourself! Be fierce at your 5’ft and own that look, girl! Be strong in who YOU are first, let go of the world’s view! SUBSCRIBE NOW

2 Comments

Love this Article and love Melodye Joy! I use her as my Model for almost everything! <3 In our industry, I can see why she gets so upset about the height standards, etc… But it shouldn't be strict like that for everything is our Design World… you def. do not have to be tall to wear my Arachnid Bags.. and her confidence makes her look 10 ft tall!!

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